Siemens Gamesa and Japan's Industry Ministry agree to wind power cooperation

A ministry official announced that the Japan's Industry Ministry will sign an agreement on Tuesday with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy to create a framework of public-private collaboration aimed at creating local supply chains for offshore power.

The official in charge of wind power at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry told reporters that the government is promoting collaborations with international players to create a domestic supply network.

The official stated that as part of these initiatives, Siemens Gamesa (the wind turbine division of Siemens Energy) will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Japanese electronic parts manufacturer TDK. Under this agreement, TDK will provide permanent magnets for Siemens Gamesa’s wind turbines.

The agreement is expected to be signed by the three parties in Tokyo later today.

METI has signed a similar contract with GE Vernova - a major U.S. company that manufactures energy equipment - to promote public/private cooperation, among others, in the areas of wind power, ammonia and hydrogen.

Offshore wind is an important part of Japan's strategy for renewable energy, but it remains heavily dependent on imported components and wind turbines, which poses a challenge to the domestic production.

Japan wants to reach 45 gigawatts in offshore wind power by 2040. This is important for Japan's ability to reduce its dependence on coal and gas imported for electricity generation. The plans of the Japanese government have been stalled after three major auctions because of high costs and delays. (Reporting and editing by Saad sayeed; Yuka Obayashi)

(source: Reuters)